Key Takeaways

• The year 2023 witnesses an unparalleled surge in mobile app usage, driven by technological trends and the infusion of AI.

• Notable breakout apps like TikTok, GOV.UK ID Check, and BeReal have gained global popularity.
  
  
• Dating apps lead the way in consumer spending growth, reshaping how users interact digitally.

• Key global markets, especially in Asia and South America, demonstrate remarkable growth potential.

In the ever-evolving digital landscape of 2023, mobile phone usage and app engagement have reached remarkable heights. According to the latest findings, users have collectively spent an astonishing 2.5 trillion hours on Android phones in the first half of the year. This marks a significant 4% increase from the latter half of 2022 and an impressive 16% surge compared to the previous year. With this momentum, projections indicate that the year's total could surpass an astounding 5 trillion hours on Android devices.

Breakthroughs in App Usage

As the allure of mobile apps grows on platforms like Apple and Google, it's no surprise that a third of consumers now dedicate their waking hours to these digital experiences. Revolutionary technologies like AI and GPT algorithms are propelling this growth, sparking innovative trends.

Global Trends in Breakout Apps

In the US, apps like Ask AI and Character AI have become prominent players, securing positions among the top 5 breakout apps. Canadian users are embracing AI and GPT algorithm-driven applications, with Microsoft's Edge and Bing capturing the sixth to tenth positions. On a global scale, Chinese apps like TikTok, CapCut from ByteDance, and Temu from PDD Holding have garnered astonishing adoption rates.

TikTok ranking in 90 days from Appranking

The UK witnessed the meteoric rise of the GOV.UK ID Check app from the government services sector, ranking as the fifth breakout app based on download growth. BeReal, making waves in Europe, has captured the top five apps by Year-over-Year (YoY) download growth in France, Germany, and Italy.

Dating Apps Reign Supreme

The world of dating apps has witnessed a remarkable surge, with giants like Tinder and Bumble commanding the spotlight as the top breakout apps in H1 2023, ranking second and fourth in consumer spending growth. Notably, LinkedIn, the professional networking platform, has made a considerable leap, securing a place among the top 10 apps by consumer spending, highlighting its global appeal.

Global estimated downloads of Linkedin 

Streaming Services Ascend

The thirst for streaming content remains unquenchable, propelling platforms like Disney+ and Paramount+ into the UK's top 10 apps by consumer spending growth, securing the sixth and ninth positions respectively. The burgeoning video streaming market continues to reshape the mobile app landscape.

How Does a Streaming App Enhance 25% User Engagement in 2 Months with Appranking?

Exploring Global Markets

Asian and South American Growth

A closer look at key markets reveals India's leading role with a substantial 26% growth in Android phone usage from H1 2021. Not far behind, China, Indonesia, Mexico, and Thailand showcase double-digit growth rates of +13%, +16%, +14%, and +18%, respectively.

Steady Engagement in the US and UK

The United States has seen a modest 1% increase in mobile usage over the past two years, indicating stable engagement. In the UK, however, there's a standout recovery from a dip in consumer spending witnessed in H1 2022.